IELTS Exam Fees for Indian Students: A Guide

The IELTS exam fee in India is INR 18,000. This applies to both the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. The fee remains the same whether you take the test on paper or on a computer.

For Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education or migrate to English-speaking countries, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam is often a crucial step. Whether you plan to study in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or another destination, a high IELTS score is essential for university admission and visa processing. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s important to understand the IELTS exam fees and related costs to plan your budget effectively.

This updated guide will walk you through the IELTS exam fees for Indian students in 2025, as well as the various options available, including cancellation and rescheduling policies, retake fees, and tips to manage your expenses. Whether you’re looking to study abroad or seeking ways to optimize your IELTS investment, this comprehensive post will equip you with all the information you need.

IELTS Exam Fees in India: A Quick Overview

The IELTS exam fee in India has remained relatively consistent over the years, making it straightforward for candidates to plan their expenses. Here’s an overview of the different fees associated with the IELTS exam in 2025:

• Standard Fee (Academic and General Training): ₹17,000
• IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI): ₹17,250
• IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1): ₹16,050

These fees apply regardless of whether you choose the paper-based or computer-delivered format of the exam. So, whether you opt for the Academic test (designed for those seeking higher education) or the General Training test (for migration or work purposes), the fee remains the same. It’s important to note that these costs are applicable only within India, and fees may vary slightly based on location and the test center.

Understanding What Your IELTS Fee Covers

The IELTS exam fee covers several important components that ensure a smooth and standardized testing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the key services included:

• Test Development: The creation of accurate and secure test materials to evaluate your English proficiency.
• Test Administration: Conducting the exam in a standardized environment with qualified staff.
• Marking and Results: Expert evaluation of your test responses with prompt results.
• Test Center Facilities: State-of-the-art infrastructure and technology at test centers to deliver a seamless experience.
• Global Network: Access to test centers worldwide, ensuring you can take the exam at a location that suits you.

While the IELTS fee may seem like a significant investment, consider it as a stepping stone toward your study abroad journey or career advancement, as a high score can open doors to top universities and professional opportunities.

IELTS Cancellation and Refund Policies: What You Need to Know

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you may need to cancel or reschedule your IELTS exam. It’s important to be aware of the cancellation fees and refund policies before booking your test:

• Cancellation more than 9 days before the test: You will receive a refund minus an administrative fee:
  • ₹4,250 for the Academic and General Training tests
  • ₹4,000 for IELTS Life Skills
  • ₹4,300 for IELTS UKVI
• Cancellation within 9 days of the test date: No refund is provided unless you can present a valid medical reason or exceptional circumstances.
• Non-appearance: If you do not attend the exam without prior cancellation, the test fee is forfeited.

If you need to cancel your test, it’s advisable to do so as early as possible to minimize financial losses. For medical or other unforeseen emergencies, providing proof may help you secure a refund with an administrative charge.

IELTS Retake Fees: How Much Does it Cost to Retake the IELTS Exam?

Retaking the IELTS exam can be a costly process, especially if you need to improve your score in one or more sections. The good news is that there’s a more affordable option called IELTS One Skill Retake, which allows you to retake only the specific section you want to improve, rather than the entire exam.

• Full IELTS Retake Fee: The full retake fee is the same as the initial exam fee (₹17,000).
• IELTS One Skill Retake Fee: ₹11,300 for retaking a single section (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking).

Choosing to retake just one section can be a more cost-effective solution if you’re satisfied with your performance in the other areas.

IIELTS Rescheduling Fees: Changing Your Exam Date

Sometimes, life circumstances can cause you to change your test date. In such cases, you may need to pay a rescheduling fee. Here’s a quick guide to the rescheduling fees for various test formats:

• IELTS on Computer (UKVI): ₹4,300
• IELTS on Computer (Non-UKVI): ₹4,250
• IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1): ₹4,000
• IELTS on Paper (UKVI): ₹4,300
• IELTS on Paper (Non-UKVI): ₹4,250
• IELTS One Skill Retake: ₹2,825

It’s worth noting that this is an administrative charge, and rescheduling must generally occur within a few days of the initial test date. If you need to reschedule, it’s best to do it as soon as possible to avoid higher fees or complications.

IELTS Recheck Fees (Enquiry on Results – EOR)

If your IELTS results do not accurately reflect your performance, you can request a recheck or Enquiry on Results (EOR). This allows you to have your test re-evaluated by a senior examiner. The fees for the EOR process are as follows:

• For Computer or Paper-Based IELTS: ₹12,750
• For IELTS UKVI: ₹12,900
• For IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1): ₹12,000
• For One Skill Retake EOR: ₹8,475

While the recheck process is thorough, it’s important to ensure that you are confident in your original results before applying, as this can be a costly option.

IELTS Test Additional Test Report Form (ATRF) Fees

If you need to send your IELTS scores to more than five universities or institutions, there is a small additional fee for extra Test Report Forms (ATRFs):

• Additional ATRFs: ₹250 per university or institution

The first five electronic copies are free, but beyond that, you will need to pay this fee. Keep this in mind when sending scores to multiple universities or organizations..

Payment Methods for IELTS Exam Fees in India

Paying for your IELTS exam fees is easy, with multiple options available:

Online Payments

• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most centers.
• Net Banking: Major Indian banks support this payment option.
• Digital Wallets: Popular services like Paytm and Google Pay may be available at your test center.

Offline Payments

• Demand Draft: Drawn in favor of your test center (e.g., IDP Education India).
• Bank Deposit: Payable through the test center’s designated bank account.
• Cash Payment: Available directly at certain test centers.

Check with your specific test center for the most convenient payment options.

Is the IELTS Exam Fee Worth It?

Yes, the IELTS exam fee is a worthwhile investment for students looking to study abroad. Here’s why:

• University Admission: Most top universities in English-speaking countries require IELTS scores as part of their admission process.
• Visa and Immigration Applications: Many countries require IELTS scores for visa purposes, ensuring your language proficiency aligns with their requirements.
• Professional Recognition: Employers in various fields recognize IELTS scores, enhancing your job prospects in global markets.
• Personal Development: Preparing for and taking the IELTS exam helps you refine your English language skills, which will be beneficial throughout your life.

Tips to Manage Your IELTS Expenses

While the IELTS fee is necessary, there are strategies to manage your expenses effectively:

• Plan Your Test Date: Early booking can save you from last-minute price hikes or limited availability.
• Explore Scholarships: Some organizations offer scholarships to cover IELTS exam fees, so research available opportunities.
• Look for Discounts: Occasionally, test centers may offer promotional discounts or discounts for multiple test bookings.
• Factor in the IELTS Fee in Your Study Abroad Budget: Ensure that the IELTS fee is accounted for in your total study abroad expenses to avoid surprises.
• Prepare Thoroughly: One way to save money is by ensuring you’re well-prepared for the exam so that you don’t need to retake it.

Final Thoughts: Start Your IELTS Journey Today

The IELTS exam is an investment in your future, whether for academic purposes, migration, or career advancement. By understanding the fee structure and knowing how to manage your costs, you can make the IELTS process more affordable and stress-free.

Ready to take the first step toward studying abroad or achieving your professional goals? Start preparing for the IELTS exam today, and take one step closer to your dreams! Whether you need coaching, practice tests, or detailed guidance, the right preparation can help you achieve the score you need to succeed.

For personalized assistance and expert advice on navigating the IELTS process, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. Let’s make your study abroad journey a reality!